KeArnold Omar Gray

KeArnold Omar Gray, affectionately known as "Keon" and "KG," was born to Natalie Williams and Ricky Martin on July 9, 1980, in Hampton County, South Carolina. On September 22, 2024, KeArnold fulfilled his earthly purpose, and God called him home. He leaves a legacy of kindness, joy, and love, remembered by his kind heart, bright spirit, and trademark dimples that could warm any room.
KeArnold developed a deep connection to his faith from a young age, joining St. Peter A.M.E. Church in Gifford, SC. As he grew older and experienced life's many trials and triumphs, his faith deepened. His journey toward fulfilling God's promise for his life led him to Bishop Dr. David E. Tompkins, Sr. and he became a member of the Living Word of Deliverance Temple Worship Center in Columbia, SC. He served on the Ushers' Board and Men's Ministry. There, KeArnold grew closer to God, constantly striving to live a life of purpose and spiritual growth.
A 1998 graduate of Estill High School in Estill, SC, KeArnold was known for his athleticism. His love for basketball and football (especially the Indianapolis Colts) was undeniable, and he connected with many through his passion for the game. On the court and the field, KeArnold was more than just a player; he was a friend and teammate, respected by all who had the privilege of playing alongside him. His infectious joy and bright spirit lit up every space he entered, and he was known for his big heart and love for others.
KeArnold continued his education at Benedict College in Columbia, SC, where he continued to foster connections and grow into the man many would come to love and respect.
At his passing, KeArnold served as an Administrative Assistant at Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home in Columbia, SC. KeArnold embraced his role as a light in the community, guiding others with his faith and kindness. His life became a beacon of spiritual growth and compassion, reflecting God's love in every encounter.
Preceding him in death were his grandparents, Olla Nella Martin, John Smalls, Louise Gray, and Howard Mitchell.
He is survived by his loving parents, Natalie (James) Williams of Gifford, SC, and Ricky Martin of Columbia, SC; his children, daughters, A'Lasia Black of Columbia, SC, and Karolina Brooks of Estill, SC; sons, Kiyuan Gray and Ja'Siah Odom, both of Columbia, SC; his siblings, Jvonndra (Anthony) Brooks of Varnville, SC, Jennessa (Josephus) Williams of Port Wentworth, GA, Natasha Williams of Columbia, SC, Phenicia (Richie) Pollins of Tillman, SC, Jamasha (Zachary) Williams of Port Wentworth, GA, Tanaisha Lawyer of Charlotte, NC, Alverta Williams of Estill, SC, James (Ashley) Garnett of Garnett, SC, and Ricquay Martin of Columbia, SC.
KeArnold is also survived by his beloved aunts and uncles: Betty Reid of Estill, SC; Loletha Martin of Estill, SC; Lorraine Martin of Hampton, SC; Mary Ann Morris of Columbia, SC; Barbara (Jim) Gregory of Gifford, SC; Betty Ward of Tillman, SC; John Henry (Deborah) Martin; Benji (Constance) Martin; Bobby (Lucille) Martin; Nick Anthony (Karen) Martin; Morris Smalls of Atlantic City, NJ; Van Smalls of Maryland; Clark Smalls of Columbia, SC; Robbie (Ruthie) Williams of Pineland, SC; Horney Mitchell of Gifford, SC; Ronald (Synovia) Mitchell of Summerville, SC; and Leon Fields of Estill, SC; and special aunts, Anzalette (Earl) Wright of Estill, SC, and Shirley Watson.
Special cousins Keith Reid, Talisha Ginn, Tashea Ginn, Synetria Mitchell-Singleton, and Lavonne Martin, along with special nieces Diamond Williams and Acilynn Creech, and a host of other nieces, nephews, and friends, will forever cherish his memory.
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